The transition from high school to college can take its toll on recent graduates as they embark on their college career. For Texas Tech freshman Christine Hyde, this important period will be an exciting learning experience but has the makings to be far from ordinary.

Hyde is the first Canadian basketball player to play for the Lady Raiders and as imagined, the decision to attend school so far from home has both its positives and its negatives.

"I'm going to miss my family, my friends and the winter there (Canada)," Hyde stated. "But I'm looking forward to a new life, a new experience. Although I miss home I'm kind of eager to start growing on my own without my parents and use these years to mature."

Hyde was a 2008 graduate of Ascension of Our Lord High School in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. As a junior, Hyde was named High School Athlete of the Year but this was just the tip of the iceberg for the Canadian standout. Hyde averaged 25 points, 10 rebounds and five assists during her senior campaign. During her final year she also collected another High School Athlete of the Year honor as well as being named team Most Valuable Player. In addition, Hyde was honored with the Miss Canada basketball award at the All-Canada Classic that year.

The accomplishments and endeavors the Lady Raider has encountered were only to be topped off with a superb honor that most athletes aren't ever fortunate to experience. Hyde was the first athlete of her high school to have her jersey retired. Hyde realizes how important and meaningful the occasion was but makes sure to point out that there's more to life than the award.

"It felt good but it isn't the biggest thing, mainly because my goals are way up there," said the humble Hyde. "But, having my jersey retired, and being the first in my school to do so feels pretty dang good."

Hyde, the middle child of three, is now focusing on the transition from high school to college but in a more unusual way than most incoming freshman. Not only is she making the transition from high school hoops to collegiate hoops and not only is she leaving her family to attend school, this 5-10 guard is leaving her country to travel a very long way. A drive that she says takes about 24 hours to complete.

"The tough decision was whether I should go far away from home or stay a bit closer," Hyde said. "Coming here, I wasn't reluctant to choose Tech, but when I got here I kind of went on a gut feeling and I just felt good and comfortable here."
Though the choice was tough, Hyde believes her decision will be a rewarding one. She has adapted well but is still getting use to one major thing.

"Everything has kind of been the same. The only the thing I'm still getting used to is the heat," said the Canadian legacy. "But coming here has been a lot better that what I had seen on my visit and I'm excited to be here."

Hyde will hope to match her game play with the Texas heat this year as she continues to adapt to her new surroundings and her new country of residence. The Lady Raiders will look to use their newly acquired Canadian talent to embark on potentially one of the most productive and successful seasons in recent Lady Raider years.